We have been fighting a hard battle in Clophill in my constituency (see previous blog) and this morning I heard we had won.

However, I heard in a rather unusual way. Sat in Flitwick Library in the middle of my surgery, a lady suddenly jumped up from the computers, ran over to me and, holding on with both hands, started kissing my face and thanking me - It took me off guard for a few seconds until I realised that she was one of the residents who would have been the most affected by an adverse planning decision which would have, in effect, destroyed the environment in which she lived. She was overjoyed and brought me news regarding the reaction of other villagers - I'm overjoyed too.

Within minutes, the phone rang and we heard another piece of good news. For months now we have been trying to secure the funding for Daniella, pictured above, in order that she can continue her education in an environment best suited to her needs.

It's been a hard battle with a few disappointments and obstacles along the way. The final appeal hurdle came on Tuesday morning and its been a nail biting few days since.

The phone call was from Danniela's Mum to say we had won and that she will be taking up her new place in September. That really is joyous news and so within minutes we've gone from kisses to tears. It's a great job some days.